Why recent organisational structure is inclined more towards organic structure?
Answers
The structure of an organisation is an important determinant of how effectively it can both identify the need for change and also respond to the necessary change.
A flexible organisation is one that is able to adapt and respond relatively quickly to changes in its external environment in order to gain advantage and sustain its competitive position.
A flexible organisation is more likely to have adopted what is often referred to as an "organic" structure, as compared with a "mechanistic" structure
Mechanistic organization is applied to most all business structures but is predominant in manufacturing while organic organization is best applied to businesses that apply a more open business structure such as online business platforms.
Companies in an organic organization structure typically have a more open communication and contribution to tasks at hand. The structure of the business is more adaptable and flexible to changes. The environment is unpredictable but because of the freedom afforded the employees and management it is better maintained. Good examples of this type of structure would be Google and the coveted positions that lie within the Facebook Corporation. Organic organizations have quickly realized that a happy workplace makes for a happy employee. Companies in a mechanistic organization structure typically hold tight control, over processes and employees; with an iron fist so to speak. Rules are implemented and rarely deviated from while there is also a very clear chain of command to delegate responsibilities and power throughout the organization. Again, it is manufacturing companies that are well known for this type of structure but there are other groups that benefit from mechanistic organization; like universities.
Employees are often found working in groups and share input on tasks. There are usually teams that handle one task. Communication is open between employees, managers and executives though they are typically just known as ‘the owner’. There is a greater scale of verbal communication between parties. There is also more face-to-face time within the hierarchy of power. Where As Employees are found to work separately and on their own assigned tasks in an Mechanical organisation. There is a definite chain of command and decisions are kept as high up the chain as possible. Communication is a process between managers and supervisors up to executives, there is little daily interaction if any. There are strict company policies or operating standards with an abundance of documentation. This structure is considered the more stable of the two structures.
Organic Structures Include:
– Large network of authority, control, and communication
– Problem solving is encouraged by all employees
– Employees are more goals oriented than job orientated
– Employee empowerment is encouraged
The structure of an organization will dictate how people interact with each other and their relationship of roles in the organization. If a structure is out-dated or not implemented correctly in a business, it will lead to many problems. These include conflict among employees or departments, confusion of employee roles, and lack of communication / coordination among departments.
In the past managers have simply tried to reorganize or work with the current structure of a business rather than addressing the necessary issues. This could lead to greater complexity rather than solving structural flaws
Mechanistic Structures Include:
– Belief upper management is better capable of making decisions
– Management instructions must be followed
– Communication and control must proceed through hierarchical routes
– More emphasis toward completing a task opposed to achieving company goals
– Employees are more jobs specialized and placed into certain departments
– Low differentiation of tasks
An organisation’s structure is one of the important determinants that can be able to respond relatively and quickly to various changes in the external environment to gain the advantage and stays in the competitive position.
The flexible organisation can be often referred as the "organic" structure.
The organic structure can be best suited for business and offers flexibility.